Bernina 1020 Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernina 1020 is a high-quality mechanical sewing machine known for its reliability, precision stitching, and user-friendly features. This versatile machine offers straight stitch, zigzag, buttonhole, and decorative stitch capabilities with adjustable stitch length and width. Built with Swiss engineering, it includes a built-in needle threader, free arm capability, reverse stitching, and multiple presser feet options. Below are key sections covering operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Machine Setup 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Accessories 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, free arm, stitch length/width controls, built-in needle threader, reverse stitch function, and multiple presser feet compatibility.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitchesStraight, zigzag, buttonhole, and decorative stitches
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Free armFor sewing sleeves and circular items
Built-in needle threaderEasy needle threading assistance
Reverse stitch leverFor reinforcing stitches
Bobbin systemFront-loading rotary bobbin
Presser feetMultiple interchangeable feet included
Power supplyStandard household electrical outlet
Carrying caseIncluded for storage and transport

Machine Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable, flat surface.

  1. Remove machine from carrying case and place on sturdy table.
  2. Connect foot control pedal to machine and power outlet.
  3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side facing back, tighten screw.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, wind bobbin evenly.
  5. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread running counterclockwise.
  6. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine.

WARNING! Always unplug machine when threading needle or changing accessories.

Basic Operation

Power on machine; test stitches on scrap fabric first.

  1. Select stitch: Turn stitch selector dial to desired pattern.
  2. Adjust stitch length: Set appropriate length for fabric type.
  3. Adjust stitch width: For zigzag and decorative stitches.
  4. Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot lever.
  5. Press foot control gently to begin sewing.
  6. Use reverse lever to reinforce beginning and end of seams.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always use proper lighting.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selector Dial: Choose from available stitch patterns. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0 (darning) to 4 (basting). Stitch Width Dial: Control zigzag width from 0-5mm.

Additional Controls: Reverse Stitch Lever, Handwheel, Presser Foot Lever, Thread Tension Dial, Bobbin Winder, Power/Light Switch.

Thread Tension: Adjust for different fabrics (normal setting 4-5). Presser Foot Pressure: Automatic adjustment for most fabrics. Needle Position: Center position standard, adjustable for special techniques.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches include straight stitch, zigzag, multi-step zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches, and automatic buttonhole.

  1. Straight Stitch: For basic seams, topstitching, quilting.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics.
  3. Buttonhole: 4-step automatic buttonhole.
  4. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming.
  5. Decorative Stitches: For embellishment and creative projects.

Tip: Always test stitch settings on scrap fabric before sewing your project.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
  3. Monthly: Clean and oil hook race mechanism.
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included: All-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, blind hem foot, seam ripper, cleaning brush, needles, bobbins, screwdriver, spool pins.

Optional Accessories: Walking foot, quilting guide, embroidery foot, darning plate, additional specialty feet.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury and machine damage.

Warranty Information

Bernina 1020 comes with limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Warranty period and terms vary by region. Register your machine online at www.bernina.com. Keep original receipt for warranty claims. For service, contact authorized Bernina dealers only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't startPower connectionCheck power cord connection; ensure foot control is plugged in properly.
Thread breakingTension/thread qualityCheck thread tension; use quality thread; rethread machine.
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRethread both upper and lower threads; adjust tension.
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredCheck feed dog position; clean feed dogs.
Bobbin issuesImproper winding/insertionRewind bobbin evenly; ensure correct insertion direction.

Service: Contact authorized Bernina dealer for professional repairs.

Support: www.bernina.com or local authorized dealer

Bernina 1020 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025